Abstract: An operator control device for controlling systems in a motor vehicle by inputs by a user includes a touch-sensitive operator control panel on which it is possible to represent two surface shapes which may be changed into one another alternately, with the first surface shape being structured so as to be capable of being sensed in a tactile fashion so that it may be used to select zones on the operator control panel in order to select menu items. The individual selectable zones may be configured differently in shape, extent and their position on the operator control panel, and the second surface shape is smoothed in comparison with the first shape so that hand-written and graphic inputs are possible with it.

Abstract: A device for prompting a controller in a vehicle to switch the controller from a normal operating state into an idle state includes a prompting device which switches a power supply through to the controller when activated to bring it into the normal operating state. The prompting device is connected in series to a first condenser and a resistor between power supply lines. A central tap between the first condenser and the resistor is connected directly or indirectly with the control input of a first transistor. An output of the first transistor is connected directly or indirectly with a control input of a second transistor that switches the supply current for the controller to be prompted. A connection line led back from the second transistor to the node between central tap and control input of the first transistor.

Abstract: A device for prompting a controller in a vehicle to switch the controller from a normal operating state into an idle state includes a prompting device which switches a power supply through to the controller when activated to bring it into the normal operating state. The prompting device is connected in series to a first condenser and a resistor between power supply lines. A central tap between the first condenser and the resistor is connected directly or indirectly with the control input of a first transistor. An output of the first transistor is connected directly or indirectly with a control input of a second transistor that switches the supply current for the controller to be prompted. A connection line led back from the second transistor to the node between central tap and control input of the first transistor.

Abstract: Process for monitoring the residual charge and the capacity of a battery, where at least two voltage-current measurements have been carried out on the load-carrying battery. The current load of the battery selected here should be greater than 30% of the nominal capacity per hour, e.g. for a 100 Ah battery, at least 30 amperes. The initial voltage-current measurement is taken at an initial time for an initial load condition of the battery. A second voltage-current measurement is carried out at a second time for a second load condition of the battery. It is essential here that the load condition of the battery has changed because of the current that has been drawn. The current-voltage measurements produce an initial measuring point and a second measuring point. The two measuring points set an interpolation line and determine the point of intersection with a limiting voltage level (UGr). This point of intersection is marked by a so-called limiting current (IGr).

Abstract: A method of operating an actuator for electromagnetically controlling a valve in an internal combustion engine involves supplying a heating current to the operating coils of the actuator before starting the internal combustion engine from a cold start condition. Thereby, the operating coils, the components surrounding them, and the lubricant are heated to ensure proper viscosity of the lubricant and thus proper operation of the actuator.